With killer surfing conditions, delicious fare and unbridled beauty, The Aloha State is a magnet for tourists and honeymooners. But it's the residents who know the secrets on how to fully appreciate Hawaii in all its glory. You need to know a few secrets when shopping for auto insurance as well. For example, you can garner discounts on your Hawaii auto insurance rates simply by combining your homeowners and auto insurance policies.
Shun Away the Sharks
According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), the Honolulu Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) had 2,935 motor vehicle thefts in 2008, ranking it 64th of 366 U.S. MSAs. No matter where you live in the Hawaiian Islands, securing your vehicle with anti-theft devices is nothing but beneficial. Using common sense is a good start. Parking in well-lit areas, removing your keys from the ignitions, closing your windows and locking your doors can thwart thieves and costs you nothing. However, adding a warning, immobilizing and/or tracking device can boost your car's security which can allot discounts on your Hawaii auto insurance. Before you buy a new car ask your agent how your car insurance will change. Vehicles that are linked with high crash rates, those that are costly to repair, and those which have high occurrences of theft will cost more to insure. In 2008 the NICB's top three Hot Wheels in Hawaii were the 1995 Honda Civic, the 1993 Honda Accord and the 1995 Acura Integra.
Ride for Savings
Insuring a vehicle in The Aloha State isn't the cheapest, but it isn't the most expensive either. In 2007 Hawaiians paid an average of $837 for car insurance, slightly above the U.S. average of $795, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Just know there are ways to keep your Hawaii auto insurance rates below that average. Most companies will reduce your rate if you combine your auto and homeowners insurance policies with them. Opt for a higher deductible and eliminate the coverage you don't need and you can save even more. Hawaii auto insurance companies will take into account your annual mileage when assessing your rate, so try to reduce that mileage by carpooling, taking the bus or riding your bike. Honolulu residents can save around $900 per month by opting to use public transportation rather than driving, according to the American Public Transportation Association. All in all, not only will you save money on Hawaii auto insurance rates, gas and car repairs, but you'll be doing your part in reducing greenhouse gases.
Kokua to Count On
It's easy to save money on your auto insurance if you shop the competition and take advantage of available discounts. Many companies offer discounts to senior citizens, good students and to those who take drivers safety courses. Inquire with your agent to see what discounts you qualify for or use LocalInsurance to find out for you. LocalInsurance is a free service that can offer you several quotes from companies with competitive Hawaii auto insurance rates. Just go online, fill out a form and you'll have rates to compare in no time.
To find more information on the auto insurance requirements in Hawaii, visit these useful links:
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